Verdese Carter Park

Community Hub

Situated in east Oakland, Verdese Carter Park spans 3.49 acres of green space that has become a neighborhood favorite. It's within a quick 10-minute stroll for about 9,000 locals who call this area home.

The Oakland Police Activities League (PAL) has made its home here, bringing years of community programs that bring people together. If you've got a green thumb, you might want to check out the community garden program run by Oakland Parks, Recreation and Youth Development.

Recreational Features

There's a bit of everything here for everyone. Basketball enthusiasts will appreciate the courts dedicated by the Golden State Warriors back in June 2015 - they've since become a hotspot for pickup games and local talent.

Kids have their own space too, with a playground featuring two sets of swings that accommodate both the bigger kids and the little ones. Parents can breathe a little easier knowing the play area is gated, but you might notice some areas could use a touch of TLC.

If outdoor workouts are your thing, the park offers some fitness equipment with basic circuit stations. Nothing fancy, but enough to get your heart pumping. And when you just need room to move, the expansive grassy areas give you all the space you need to toss a frisbee, kick a ball, or simply sprawl out with a good book.

Picnic and Gathering Areas

Got a family reunion or birthday coming up? The BBQ and picnic areas make Verdese Carter a natural choice for community gatherings. These open spaces have seen their fair share of celebrations over the years.

The park regularly transforms into an event venue for the City of Oakland's Town Nights program, offering safe, family-oriented activities that bring the neighborhood together. There's enough room for everyone to join in while still maintaining that cozy community feel.

Renovation Project

Exciting changes are on the horizon! In 2021, Verdese Carter Park was chosen for a major facelift funded by the California Statewide Park Program. The Trust for Public Land is spearheading this project alongside the City of Oakland and other partners.

Based on what the community asked for in 2020, the plans include refreshing the playground, creating a new welcoming entrance with a walking path loop, and building a versatile event plaza complete with a stage and stepped seating.

Safety is getting an upgrade too, with additional lighting planned within the park. The renovations will also deliver flexible gathering areas, an improved multi-use field, and an enhanced community garden space. All these changes aim to give neighborhood families and young people more reasons to enjoy their local green space.